What is hematuria?
Hematuria is blood in your urine. It can occur in either gender but is more common in men. The two types of hematuria are:
Gross hematuria
With gross hematuria, your urine has a noticeable red or pink tinge.
Microscopic hematuria
Microscopic hematuria isn’t apparent to the naked eye, as it occurs in only tiny amounts. Dr. Nikkhou diagnoses microscopic hematuria through urine studies.
Hematuria can occur with many different urological conditions, so discovering the underlying reason for this symptom is the first step in treatment.
What causes hematuria?
Many possible issues could result in hematuria, including:
- Kidney stones
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate)
- Urinary tract infection
- Prostate inflammation or infection
- Interstitial cystitis (painful bladder syndrome)
- Radiation cystitis (cystitis after radiation therapy)
- Kidney cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Ureter cancer
- Abdominal trauma
- Medications such as blood thinners, penicillin, and some cancer drugs
- Nephropathy (diabetic kidney disease)
- Heavy exercise
Other factors may cause hematuria, as well. Hematuria is never normal, so it's essential to get it checked out promptly.
How is hematuria diagnosed?
Dr. Nikkhou reviews your medical history, symptoms, and lab results to form an initial diagnosis. In most cases, Dr. Nikkhou also recommends imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to uncover the cause of your hematuria.
He may recommend a cystoscopy, a procedure in which he examines your bladder and urethra through a thin medical scope. Through cystoscopy, Dr. Nikkhou can identify problems like tumors or stones.
During the cystoscopy, Dr. Nikkhou may perform a bladder washing, in which he flushes your bladder with saline solution to encourage bladder lining shedding. This procedure produces a large number of well-preserved cells for later testing.
How is hematuria treated?
Hematuria treatment focuses on correcting the causative condition or issue. Dr. Nikkhou offers medical solutions like oral medication, in-office procedures like UroLift®, and surgery when needed.
To treat complex conditions like bladder cancer, Dr. Nikkhou works with multidisciplinary experts in the oncology and radiology fields. With medical, office-based procedures, and surgical approaches, Dr. Nikkhou always offers the latest advanced protocols and treatments to ensure the best results for you.
If you have blood in your urine or have urinary problems, don’t delay in finding solutions. Call Kiavash Nikkhou, MD, or schedule an appointment online.
